Liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition

ABSTRACT

A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition comprising non-spherical and/or non-rolling abrasive cleaning particles wherein the abrasive cleaning particles comprise extruded, and/or three-dimensional printed, elements having a longitudinal length “L” extending parallel to a z-axis and a complex cross-sectional shape extending on a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal length “L” and parallel to an x-y plane, wherein the complex cross-sectional shape comprises one or more elongate protrusions projecting in a direction parallel to the longitudinal length “L”, each protrusion having at least one edge, and wherein the complex cross-sectional shape is a predetermined non-random cross-sectional shape.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to liquid compositions for cleaning and/orcleansing a variety of inanimate and animate surfaces, including hardsurfaces in and around the house, dish surfaces, hard and soft tissuesurface of the oral cavity, such as teeth, gums, tongue and buccalsurfaces, human and animal skin or hair, car and vehicles surfaces, etc.More specifically, the present invention relates to liquid scouringcompositions comprising suitable particles for cleaning and/orcleansing. Most preferably the present invention relates to a hardsurface composition for treating inanimate hard surfaces.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Scouring compositions such as particulate compositions or liquid (incl.gel, paste-type) compositions containing abrasive components are wellknown in the art. Such compositions are used for cleaning and/orcleansing a variety of surfaces; especially those surfaces that tend tobecome soiled with difficult to remove stains and soils.

Amongst the currently known scouring compositions, the most popular onesare based on abrasive particles with shapes varying from spherical toirregular. The most common abrasive particles are either inorganic likecarbonate salt, clay, silica, silicate, shale ash, perlite and quartzsand or organic polymeric beads like polypropylene, PVC, melamine, urea,polyacrylate and derivatives, and come in the form of liquid compositionhaving a creamy consistency with the abrasive particles suspendedtherein.

The surface safety profile of such currently known scouring compositionsis inadequate alternatively, poor cleaning performances is shown forcompositions with an adequate surface safety profile. Indeed, due to thepresence of very hard abrasive particles, these compositions can damage,i.e., scratch, the surfaces onto which they have been applied.

To address some of these problems, shaped abrasive particles such asthose described in EP 2 338 966 A1 have been developed in order toprovide effective cleaning and surface safety.

However, there still remains a need to improve the cleaning abilities ofabrasive particles as well as simplifying the processability necessaryto ensure consistent and appropriate particle shape as well as strength.

It is an advantage of the compositions according to the presentinvention that they may be used to clean/cleanse inanimate and animatesurfaces made of a variety of materials like glazed and non-glazedceramic tiles, enamel, stainless steel, Inox®, Formica®, vinyl, no-waxvinyl, linoleum, melamine, glass, plastics, painted surfaces, human andanimal skin, hair, hard and soft tissue surface of the oral cavity, suchas teeth enamel, gums, tongue and buccal surfaces, and the like.

A further advantage of the present invention is that in the compositionsherein, the particles can be formulated at very low levels, whilst stillproviding the above benefits.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a liquid cleaning and/or cleansingcomposition comprising non-spherical and/or non-rolling abrasivecleaning particles wherein the abrasive cleaning particles compriseextruded, and/or three-dimensional printed, elements having alongitudinal length “L” extending parallel to a z-axis and a complexcross-sectional shape extending on a plane perpendicular to thelongitudinal length “L” and parallel to an x-y plane, wherein thecomplex cross-sectional shape comprises one or more elongate protrusionseach having at least one edge, and wherein the complex cross-sectionalshape is a predetermined non-random cross-sectional shape.

The present invention further encompasses a process generating shapednon-spherical and/or non-rolling abrasive cleaning particles for use ina liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition.

The present invention further encompasses a kit comprising the liquidcleaning and/or cleansing composition and a substrate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is drawing showing an illustration of an exemplary particle ofthe present invention.

FIG. 2 is drawing showing an illustration of exemplary particles of thepresent invention and the respective parameters.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As used herein “abrasive particles” means abrasive cleaning particlescomprising extruded, and/or three dimensionally “3D” printed, elementsof a predetermined shape.

As used herein “substantially water-insoluble” means that the materialreferred to has a solubility of less than 30 g per 100 g of water,preferably less than 20 g per 100 g of water, more preferably less than10 g per 100 g of water, more preferably less than 5 g per 100 g ofwater, even more preferably less than 2 g per 100 g of water, mostpreferably less than 1 g per 100 g of water, at room temperature (20°C.) and atmospheric pressure (101 kPa).

As used herein “complex cross-sectional shape” means that saidcross-sectional shape is predetermined and preferably at least partlyirregular such to define a non-symmetric perimeter about at least oneaxis parallel to an x-axis or a y-axis.

As used herein “z-axis” means an axis parallel to the length of theelement and/or the extruding axis.

As used herein the “x-y plane” means a plane perpendicular to the z-axisand is typically parallel to a plane on which the perimeter of thecomplex cross-sectional shape lies.

As used herein “substantially the entire length “L”” means at least 70%,preferably at least 85%, preferably at least 90%, more preferably atleast 95%, most preferably at least 98%, of length “L”.

As used herein “substantially perpendicular” means from 45° to 90°,preferably from 50° to 90°, more preferably from 60° to 90°, even morepreferably from 70° to 90°, most preferably from 80° to 90°, taken froman axis parallel to the cleaning direction.

As used herein “same shape” means at least 80%, preferably at least 85%,more preferably at least 90%, most preferably at least 95% identity, asdetermined by image analysis software such as available in the nano 500from Occhio or G3 from Malvern shape analyzing instruments.

The Liquid Cleaning/Cleansing Composition

The compositions according to the present invention are designed ascleaners/cleansers for a variety of inanimate and animate surfaces.Preferably, the compositions herein are suitable for cleaning/cleansingsurfaces selected from the group consisting of inanimate surfaces,animate surfaces, and combinations thereof.

In a preferred embodiment, the compositions herein are suitable forcleaning/cleansing inanimate surfaces selected from the group consistingof household hard surfaces; dish surfaces; surfaces like leather orsynthetic leather; and automotive vehicle surfaces.

In a highly preferred embodiment, the compositions herein are suitableto clean household hard surfaces.

By “household hard surface”, it is meant herein any kind of surfacetypically found in and around houses like kitchens, bathrooms, e.g.,floors, walls, tiles, windows, cupboards, sinks, showers, showerplastified curtains, wash basins, WCs, fixtures and fittings and thelike made of different materials like ceramic, vinyl, no-wax vinyl,linoleum, melamine, glass, Inox®, Formica®, any plastics, plastifiedwood, metal or any painted or varnished or sealed surface and the like.Household hard surfaces also include household appliances including, butnot limited to refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, automaticdryers, ovens, microwave ovens, dishwashers and so on. Such hardsurfaces may be found both in private households as well as incommercial, institutional and industrial environments.

By “dish surfaces” it is meant herein any kind of surfaces found in dishcleaning, such as dishes, cutlery, cutting boards, pans, and the like.Such dish surfaces may be found both in private households as well as incommercial, institutional and industrial environments.

In an another preferred embodiment, the compositions herein are suitablefor cleaning/cleansing animate surfaces selected from the groupconsisting of human skin; animal skin; human hair; animal hair; andinter-dental areas such as teeth, gums and the like.

The compositions according to the present invention are liquidcompositions as opposed to a solid or a gas. Liquid compositions includecompositions having a water-like viscosity as well as thickenedcompositions, such as gels and pastes.

In a preferred embodiment herein, the liquid compositions herein areaqueous compositions. Therefore, they may comprise from 65% to 99.5% byweight of the total composition of water, preferably from 75% to 98% andmore preferably from 80% to 95%.

In another preferred embodiment herein, the liquid compositions hereinare mostly non-aqueous compositions although they may comprise from 0%to 10% by weight of the total composition of water, preferably from 0%to 5%, more preferably from 0% to 1% and most preferably 0% by weight ofthe total composition of water.

In a preferred embodiment herein, the compositions herein are neutralcompositions, and thus have a pH, as is measured at 25° C., of 3 to 10,preferably 4 to 9, more preferably 5 to 8.

In other preferred embodiment compositions have pH above 4, preferablyabove 7, more preferably above 9, most preferably above 10.5 andalternatively have pH preferably from 2 to below 9, preferably from 2.5to 7.5.

Accordingly, the compositions herein may comprise suitable bases andacids to adjust the pH.

A suitable base to be used herein is an organic and/or inorganic base.Suitable bases for use herein are the caustic alkalis, such as sodiumhydroxide, potassium hydroxide and/or lithium hydroxide, and/or thealkali metal oxides such, as sodium and/or potassium oxide or mixturesthereof. A preferred base is a caustic alkali, more preferably sodiumhydroxide and/or potassium hydroxide.

Other suitable bases include ammonia, ammonium carbonate, all availablecarbonate salts such as K₂CO₃, Na₂CO₃, CaCO₃, MgCO₃, etc., alkanolamines(as e.g. monoethanolamine), urea and urea derivatives, polyamine, etc.

Typical levels of such bases, when present, are of from 0.01% to 5.0% byweight of the total composition, preferably from 0.05% to 3.0% and morepreferably from 0.1% to 0.6%.

The compositions herein may comprise an acid to trim its pH to therequired level, despite the presence of an acid, if any, thecompositions herein will maintain their preferably neutral pH asdescribed herein above. A suitable acid for use herein is an organicand/or an inorganic acid. A preferred organic acid for use herein has apKa of less than 6. A suitable organic acid is selected from the groupconsisting of citric acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, succinic acid,glutaric acid and adipic acid and a mixture thereof. A mixture of saidacids may be commercially available from BASF under the trade nameSokalan® DCS. A suitable inorganic acid is selected from the groupconsisting hydrochloric acid, sulphuric acid, phosphoric acid and amixture thereof.

A typical level of such an acid, when present, is of from 0.01% to 5.0%by weight of the total composition, preferably from 0.04% to 3.0% andmore preferably from 0.05% to 1.5%.

In a preferred embodiment, the composition according to the presentinvention contains citric acid, preferably alone or in combination withother acids, at a level of from greater than 0% to less than 0.5% byweight of the composition. It has surprisingly been found that citricacid at this level improves the cleaning effect of the abrasiveparticles.

In a preferred embodiment according to the present invention thecompositions herein are thickened compositions. Preferably, the liquidcompositions herein have a viscosity of up to 7500 cps at 20 s⁻¹, morepreferably from 5000 cps to 50 cps, yet more preferably from 2000 cps to50 cps and most preferably from 1500 cps to 300 cps at 20 s⁻¹ and 20° C.when measured with a Rheometer, model AR 1000 (Supplied by TAInstruments) with a 4 cm conic spindle in stainless steel, 2° angle(linear increment from 0.1 to 100 sec⁻¹ in max. 8 minutes).

In another preferred embodiment according to the present invention thecompositions herein have a water-like viscosity. By “water-likeviscosity” it is meant herein a viscosity that is close to that ofwater. Preferably the liquid compositions herein have a viscosity of upto 50 cps at 60 rpm, more preferably from 0 cps to 30 cps, yet morepreferably from 0 cps to 20 cps and most preferably from 0 cps to 10 cpsat 60 rpm and 20° C. when measured with a Brookfield digital viscometermodel DV II, with spindle 2.

Abrasive Cleaning Particles

The liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition herein compriseabrasive cleaning particles that are designed to feature very effectiveshapes, e.g. defined by macroshape and mesoshape descriptors whereaseffective shape of particles are obtained by 3D printing or extrudingelements with predefined cross-section and length.

The applicant has found that non-spherical and/or non-rolling andpreferably sharp abrasive cleaning particles provide good soil removaland low surface damage. The applicant has found that very specificparticle shapes can be obtained from extruding or 3D printing elementsof material whilst having extremely good control over the final shape ofthe particles in order to provide accurate reproducibility of effectiveshapes throughout the particle population vs. the more random particlesgenerated via for example reduction into particles from foamedstructures (the latter requiring added processability in order tomaintain the desired/effective shaped fraction within the population ofparticles).

The abrasive cleaning particles may comprise, preferably consist of,extruded, and/or three-dimensional printed, elements 1 having alongitudinal length “L” extending parallel to a z-axis and a complexcross-sectional shape extending on a plane perpendicular to saidlongitudinal length “L” and parallel to an x-y plane, wherein saidcomplex cross-sectional shape comprises one or more elongate protrusions2 each having at least one edge 3, and wherein said complexcross-sectional shape is a predetermined non-random cross-sectionalshape. Most preferred are extruded elements. The latter has the benefitof lower production cost and faster particle production turnaround.

The protrusions may extend along substantially the entire length “L”.This has the advantage of maximizing the scraping surface or scrapingedge during scrubbing, thus increasing the amount of soil being liftedfrom a given surface at any given cleaning stroke.

The selection of the longitudinal length “L” is done such that there isa large number of particles lying on the surface to clean whereas theparticle longitudinal length “L” is parallel to the plan of the surfaceto be cleaned and L is substantially perpendicular to the cleaningdirection therefore yielding for a maximum cleaning efficiency

If L is too short, a large number of particles will orientate on thesurface to clean whereas the XY cross-sectional plan of the particles isparallel to the plan of the surface to be cleaned and the cleaningefficiency is suboptimal independently from the cleaning direction

If L is too long, a large number of particles will orientate on thesurface to clean whereas L is parallel to the plan of the surface to becleaned and L is substantially parallel to the cleaning directiontherefore yielding equally suboptimal cleaning efficiency

The longitudinal length “L” may be dimensioned such that said elementswhen placed onto a surface and a cleaning force is applied in a cleaningdirection spontaneously orientate themselves to deliver optimal cleaningefficiency, and wherein at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, morepreferably at least 65%, even more preferably at least 70%, mostpreferably at least 80%, of the elements align accordingly to anorientation angle such that the length “L” is substantiallyperpendicular to said cleaning direction and at least a portion,preferably all, of length “L” is parallel to said surface, as measuredaccording to the method herein. This has the advantage that at any givencleaning stroke the particles scrape the maximum soil surface.

The geometry of the XY cross-sectional plane of the particles may bedimensioned such that the particles are substantially not rolling aroundtheir Z-axis during the cleaning motion. Incidentally the cross-sectionof the particle is substantially irregular, preferably featuringelongated protrusions such as to increase the aspect ratio of thecross-section that minimize from partially to significantly theoccurrence of the rolling phenomenon around the Z-axis of the particle.Cross-section geometries featuring at least 1 or 2 elongated protrusionsare found effective whereas the extension of the elongation furtherreinforce the ability of the particle to avoid rolling toward thecleaning direction during the cleaning event.

The particle described here above are tailored to slide across thesurface to be cleaned in an optimal motion fashion to deliver theoptimal cleaning. However, the presence of at least one scrapping edge,preferably several scrapping edges along the Z-axis at the periphery ofthe particle cross-section, preferably with substantial sharpness asdefined by a low tip radius, further optimizes the cleaning performanceof the particle.

The elements may be solid, comprise a hollow core, and/or be porous.Elements with a hollow core are preferably formed by extrusion of athermoplastic or curable material through a shaped orifice having afilled core. The resulting element typically has a cross-section whichis the inverse image of the orifice. The advantage of this embodiment isthat such particles may then comprise within its core an activecomponent typically selected from cleaning actives such as surfactant,solvent, polymer acid or base, etc, or other actives such as malodorcounteractants, such as reactive aldehydes, perfumes, and mixturesthereof. The latter are then gradually released upon scrubbing onto asurface. Porous elements may be generated by 3D printing a foamedstructure having a predefined porosity into the desired shaped element,or by extrusion foaming through a shaped orifice. The pores may befurther filled with similar active components. A further advantage ofhollow and/or porous elements is that the density is greatly reducedthus enabling to suspend such particles in a liquid matrix with minimalamounts of suspending aid, whilst not compromising on cleaningperformance.

The elements may be symmetrical about a plane perpendicular to saidlongitudinal length “L” and are preferably symmetrical or asymmetricalabout a plane parallel to said longitudinal length “L”. Such arrangementensures that continuous scraping edges are formed along length “L”whilst having a very intricate cross-section to promote non-rollingaround the Z-axis and optimal abrasion through the soil/surfaceinterface.

The extruded elements may consist of one or more fibers, preferably asingle continuous fiber of a material selected from organic or inorganictypically in the form of slurry based on water or solvent comprisingsolution, most preferably said material being a thermoplastic orthermocurable or mineral material or blend of thermoplastic and/orthermocurable and/or mineral material. The advantage of having morefibers per element is that more intricate cross-sectional shapes may beformed to increase the surface area of contact upon scrubbing onto asurface. When more fibers are used, preferably said fibers are differentin that the material properties are sufficiently distinct to promoteweakness points along the interface between said fibers. The latter hasthe advantage that the elements will tend to fracture in a specific orpredetermined orientation upon the application of shear, which may beadvantageous in certain applications. Preferred however are elementsmade of a single continuous fiber of material because of the simplicityof manufacturing process, production turnaround and lower cost.

The complex cross-sectional shape of the elements may comprise more than2 elongate protrusions, preferably in the form of abrasive wingspreferably having a shape selected from the group consisting ofsubstantially linear, substantially concave, substantially convex andcombinations thereof. This embodiment has the advantage that theelements can effectively scoop the soil from a surface.

The complex cross-sectional shape comprises from 3 to 30, preferablyfrom 3 to 24, preferably from 3 to less than 20, more preferably from 3to less than 15, even more preferably from 3 to less than 6, even morepreferably from 3 to 4, most preferably 3, of said protrusions,preferably in the form of abrasive wings typically having a shapeselected from the group consisting of substantially linear,substantially concave, substantially convex and combinations thereof.This embodiment has the advantage that resistance to rolling is furtherincreased such that scraping is promoted.

The edge 3 (or scraping edge) may exhibit an angle of from 10° to 90°,preferably from 20° to 80°, more preferably from 30° to 60°, even morepreferably from 40° to 60°. Such sharp edges ensure improved scraping ofsoil.

In a preferred embodiment more than 70%, preferably more than 80%, morepreferably at least 90%, of the particle population exhibit the sameshape of the cross-section and more than 70%, preferably more than 80%,more preferably at least 90%, of the particle population exhibit thesame length. Both cross-section shape and length ensure optimal cleaningand surface safety performance.

Additionally, the abrasive particles have preferably a multitude ofsharp edges. The sharp edges of the non-spherical particles are definedby edges having a tip radius below 25 μm, preferably below 8 μm, mostpreferably from 5 μm to 0.5 μm. The tip radius is defined by thediameter of an imaginary circle fitting the curvature of the edgeextremity.

FIG. 2. illustrates the tip radius of exemplary particles.

In a preferred embodiment each said protrusion 2 may have at least one,preferably a single edge, having a tip radius of from greater than 0.5μm to less than 25 μm, preferably from 1 μm to 12.5 μm, more preferablyfrom 1 μm to 7.5 μm, equating to a tip diameter of 1 μm to less than 50μm, preferably from 2 μm to 25 μm, more preferably from 2 μm to 15 μm.This embodiment has the advantage that improved penetration in thesoil/surface interface is achieved.

Preferably the abrasive particles are made from a material comprising,preferably consisting essentially of, more preferably consisting of, athermoplastic material, more preferably a biodegradable thermoplasticmaterial preferably selected from the group consisting of biodegradablepolyesters preferably selected from the group consisting ofpolyhydroxy-alkanoates preferably selected from polyhydroxyButyrate,polyhydroxyButyrate-co-valerate, polyhydroxyButyrate-co-hexanoate andmixtures thereof, poly(lactic acid), polycaprolactone, polyesteramide,aliphatic copolyesters, aromatic copolyesters, and mixtures thereof;thermoplastic starch; cellulose esters particularly cellulose acetateand/or nitrocellulose and their derivatives; and mixtures thereof;preferably a blend of a biodegradable polyester and a thermoplasticstarch. More preferably the abrasive particles are made from a materialcomprising, preferably consisting essentially of, more preferablyconsisting of, a thermoplastic material, more preferably a biodegradablethermoplastic material preferably selected from the group consisting ofpetroleum-based polyesters preferably selected from the group consistingof polycaprolactone, polyesteramide, aliphatic copolyesters, aromaticcopolyesters, and mixtures thereof; thermoplastic starch; celluloseesters particularly cellulose acetate and/or nitrocellulose and theirderivatives; and mixtures thereof; preferably a blend of biodegradablepetroleum-based polyester and a thermoplastic starch, preferably a blendof polycaprolactone and a thermoplastic starch. Particles made from suchmaterials exhibit good structural properties in terms of hardness andrigidity as well as processability and effective biodegradability.

Alternatively, the abrasive particles are made from a materialcomprising, preferably consisting essentially of wax, preferably naturalwaxes such as carnauba, candellila, shellac, beewax, etc., oralternatively although less preferably of synthetic waxes such asmontan, microcrystalline, polyethylene-derived wax, etc., and whereasthe wax or wax blend has a high melting point, typically above 60° C.,more preferably above 80° C.

Preferably, the abrasive cleaning particles consist essentially ofbiodegradable abrasive cleaning particles, preferably said biodegradableabrasive cleaning particles having a biodegradability rate of more than50%, preferably more than 60%, more preferably more than 70% accordingto ASTM6400 test method after excluding from the degradation ratenon-degrading natural or mineral material, where applicable.

Alternatively or additionally, the abrasive particles herein maycomprise one or more mineral materials. Typical mineral materials ofinterest are derived from carbonate, sulphate, phosphate hydroxide,fluoride salts of Calcium, Barium, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Zinc,Copper, Borate, sodium, potassium, ammonium, alumina or silicate andblends whereas the material can be synthesized from extensively knowninorganic synthesis processes (e.g.: Synthesis of InorganicMaterials—Wiley or Handbook of Inorganic Compounds—CRC) or extractedfrom mining & processing natural occurring inorganic material,alternatively be a mix of synthetic and natural material. Preferably,the minerals for use herein have a MOHS hardness of from 1 to 5.5, morepreferably from 1.5 to 5, even more preferably from 2 to 5 and mostpreferably from 2.5 to 3.5 and a specific gravity of from 1 to 3,preferably a specific gravity of 1.5 to 2.5.

In case mineral material are used, slurries based on water or solventsolutions or based on blends with thermoplastic or thermoset materialsare used to be extruded or 3D-printed. In cases water or solventslurries or blends with thermosets are used, the extruded or 3D printedelements need to undergo a drying or curing treatment to solidify themineral elements followed in most cases, although only optionally forblends with thermoplastics or thermoset, by a curing or sintering stepin order to solidify the mineral-based element. Typically, the curing orsintering step range extends from 400 to 1200° C. whereas thetime/temperature protocol is set to achieve the desired mechanical andhardness target.

The abrasive particles of the present invention may further comprise, atleast partly incorporated therein, reinforcing filler particles that maybe soluble or substantially water-insoluble. The abrasive particleshaving a particle size that is greater than the particle size of thefiller particles. The filler particles may be sized such that to notaffect the ability of the particle to orientate or to avoid rolling orseparately to compromise the sharpness of the scrapping edges. Inpractice, it is desirable that the fillers size as defined by their meanarea-equivalent diameter be below 50 μm, preferably from 0.5 to 30 μm,more preferably from 0.5 to 20 μm.

Abrasive cleaning particles comprising filler particles so sized exhibitgood friability upon shear whilst still being sufficiently resistant toexternal stresses for good cleaning of a variety of soils on a varietyof surfaces. Moreover, such filler particles enable more effectivebiodegradation of the abrasive particles.

When the filler particles used comprise a material selected from naturalmineral materials such as talk, mica, barium sulfate, wood, walnut,kaolin and the like, the biodegradability rate is calculated based onthe biodegradation of the abrasive particle excluding the actual filler.In a preferred embodiment the filler particles comprise a materialselected from the group consisting of organic, in-organic and mixturesthereof. Preferably the organic material is selected from vegetalfeedstock essentially cellulose or lignocellulose based material e.g.:nut shell, wood, cotton flax or bamboo fibers, corn cob, rice hull,sugars and more generally carbohydrate especially starch from corn,maize, potato, alternatively urea, etc; other plant parts selected fromthe group consisting of stems, roots, leaves, seeds, and mixturesthereof.

In a preferred embodiment, especially when the matrix material is madeof thermoplastic with high crystallinity, the filler is made of starchwith high content of amylose and low content of amylopectin (by “low” itis meant less than 10%, preferably less than 5%, more preferably lessthan 1%, by weight of the starch). Indeed, the amylose are typically lowbranched carbohydrate that allow fast and efficient crystallisation ofthe thermoplastic hence promoting better foam formation and materialwith better mechanical and chemical resilience. Typically, starch fillerwith amylose content above 30%, preferably above 50% are especiallypreferred since such have been found not to prevent or significantlyreduce the rate of crystallization leading to particles with betterstrength and shape.

The fillers may be selected from in-organic material wherein theinorganic material is having a specific gravity of from 1 to 3 and mohshardness comprised between 1-5.5. Suitable example of in-organic fillersare derived from sulfate, or carbonate metal salts, such as Ca₂CO₃,MgSO₄, barite, generally phyllosilicate material e.g.; talc, kaolinite,vermiculite, mica, muscovite, pyrophillite, bentonite, montmorrillonite,feldspar, etc, and mixtures thereof.

Alternatively or in addition, non-biodegradable polymeric reinforcingfillers may be used, although it is preferred not to use them in highquantities when substantial biodegradation level of the abrasiveparticles is desired. In this case, non-biodegradable polymers can beused in quantity not exceeding 10% of the weight of the biodegradablepolymer. Suitable non-biodegradable polymeric fillers can be selectedfrom the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene,polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyacrylate, non-biodegradable polyurethane,and their derivatives and mixtures thereof.

It is highly preferred that the reinforcing filler particles, when used,are comprised at a level of from 5% to 70%, preferably from 10% to 60%,preferably from greater than 15% to 60%, more preferably from 20% to60%, most preferably from greater than 30% to 60%, by weight of theabrasive particle. Such high levels of filler particles enables toreduce the cost of the abrasives as well as still meeting the structuralrequirements and improving biodegradability when needed.

In a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing filler particles areincorporated into the abrasive cleaning particles in such a way that atleast part of said filler particles does not protrude significantly outof the surface of said abrasive particles in order to not compromise thesharpness of the scrapping edges or the pre-defined geometry of theelements.

The applicant has surprisingly further discovered that efficientcleaning result can be achieved with particle population occupying alarge volume per mass of particles loaded in a cleaning composition. Thevolume that the particles will occupy is defined by the packing densityof the particles. The packing density of a particle populationrepresents the mass of a sample of particle population divided by thevolume occupied by the particles sample measured in dry condition afterpacking with normal gravity force. Incidentally, a particle populationwith low packing density will occupy a high volume, both in cleaner andduring cleaning operation to provide effective cleaning performance,while a particle sample with high packing density will occupy a lowvolume, both in cleaner and during cleaning operation hence providinglow effective cleaning performance.

Indeed, particles with low packing density are effective at providingmaximum contact area between the abrasive particles and the soil and/orsurface to be cleaned. And therefore, lower quantity of abrasiveparticles can be used in cleaning composition i.e., below 10% vs.commonly above 20%, while delivering equal or better cleaningeffectiveness. It is commonly known, that higher quantity of particlesin the cleaning composition leads to a better cleaning effectiveness,additionally a higher mass of particle was used to maximize the cleaningperformance. The applicant has established that the cleaning efficiencyis rather impacted by the volume that the abrasive population occupiesat the cleaning interface versus typically the mass of the abrasivepopulation. Incidentally, particles with low packing density typicallyrequire lower mass load of the abrasive in the cleaner versus highpacking density particles to produce efficient cleaning.

The applicant has found that abrasive population with high packingdensity feature low cleaning performance while, on the other hand,abrasive population with lower packing density has intrinsic fragilitythat is also inadequate for cleaning purpose via mechanical abrasion. Ina preferred embodiment the abrasive particles have a packing density offrom 50 kg/m³ to 400 kg/m³, preferably from 60 kg/m³ to 250 kg/m³, morepreferably from 80 kg/m³ to 200 kg/m³, even more preferably from 90kg/m³ to 150 kg/m³. Such particles are providing good cleaningperformance and surface safety.

The packing density herein is calculated according to the followingmethod: One tenth of a gram (0.1 g+/−0.001 g) of dry particles is placedinto a 20 ml precise metric graduated Pyrex® volumetric cylinder (asavailable from Sigma-Aldrich). The cylinder is sealed (e.g. with astopper or film), and subsequently shaken using a Vortex mixer (forexample, the model L-46 Power Mix from Labinco DNTE SP-016) at 2500 rpm(maximum speed) for 30 seconds. The volume of the particles is measuredafter vibration. If the volume is between 5 to 15 ml, this is convertedaccordingly into packing density as expressed in kg/m3. If the volume of0.1 g is less than 5 ml, then two tenths of a gram (0.2 g+/−0.001 g) ofdry particles is used to re-run the test in clean cylinder. If thevolume of the 0.2 g is less than 5 ml, then half a gram (0.5 g+/−0.001g) of dry particles is used to re-run the test in a clean cylinder. Ifthe volume of the 0.5 g is less than 5 ml, then one gram (1.0 g+/−0.001g) of dry particles is used to re-run the test in a clean cylinder, withvolumes between 3 to 15 ml converted into kg/m3 for packing density.

Preferred abrasive cleaning particles suitable for used herein are hardenough to provide good cleaning/cleansing performance, whilst providinga good surface safety profile. The hardness of the abrasive particlescan be modified by changing the raw material used to prepare them.

In a preferred embodiment the abrasive cleaning particles have ahardness expressed accordingly to the MOHS hardness scale. Preferably,the MOHS hardness is comprised between 1 and 5.5, preferably is from 1.5to 5, more preferably from 2 to 4, and most preferably from 2.5 to 3.The MOHS hardness scale is an internationally recognized scale formeasuring the hardness of a compound versus a compound of knownhardness, see Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Kirk-Othmer, 4 thEdition Vol 1, page 18 or Lide, D. R (ed) CRC Handbook of Chemistry andPhysics, 73 rd edition, Boca Raton, Fla.: The Rubber Company, 1992-1993.Many MOHS Test kits are commercially available containing material withknown MOHS hardness. For measurement and selection of abrasive materialwith selected MOHS hardness, it is recommended to execute the MOHShardness measurement with un-shaped particles e.g.: with spherical orgranular forms of the abrasive material since MOHS measurement of shapeparticles will provide erroneous results.

In one preferred example, the size of the abrasive cleaning particlesused in the present invention is modified during usage especiallyundergoing significant size reduction. Hence the particle remain visibleor tactile detectable in liquid composition and at the start of theusage process to provide effective cleaning. As the cleaning processprogresses, the abrasive particles disperse or break into smallerparticles and become invisible to an eye or tactile undetectable. Thiseffect is better improved by the incorporation of filler particles ofthe present invention.

It has surprisingly been found that the abrasive cleaning particles ofthe present invention show a good cleaning performance even atrelatively low levels, such as preferably from 0.1% to 10% by weight ofthe total composition, preferably from 0.1% to 5%, more preferably from0.5% to less than 5%, even more preferably from 1.0% to 3%, by weight ofthe total composition of said abrasive cleaning particles.

The particles used in the present invention can be white, transparent orcolored by use of suitable dyes and/or pigments. Additionally suitablecolor stabilizing agents can be used to stabilize desired color. Theabrasive particles are preferable color stable particles. By “colorstable” it is meant herein that color of the particles used in thepresent invention will not turn yellow during storage and use.

In one preferred example, the abrasive cleaning particles used in thepresent invention remain visible when liquid composition is stored intoa bottle while during the effective cleaning process abrasive particlesdisperse or break into smaller particles and become invisible to an eye.

The applicant has found that efficacious and safe cleaning particles canbe produced with very specific structural and shape parameters asdescribed below. The determination of the shape factors discussed beloware accessible from using for instance the Occhio Nano 500 or in MalvernMorphologi G3.

Form Factor:

Form factor is a preferred mesoshape descriptor and is a quantitative,2-dimension image analysis shape description and is being measuredaccording to ISO 9276-6:2008(E) section 8.2. Form factor is sometimesdescribed in literature as being the difference between a particle'sshape and a perfect sphere. Form factor values range from 0 to 1, wherea form factor of 1 describes a perfectly spherical particles or discparticle as measured in a two dimensional image.

${{Form}\mspace{14mu}{Factor}} = \frac{4\pi\; A}{P^{2}}$

Where A is projection area, which is 2D descriptor and P is the lengthof the perimeter of the particle. The applicants refer herein to meandata, wherein mean data are extracted from volume-based vs. number-basedmeasurements

The elements herein may have a predetermined shape having a form factor,preferably a mean form factor, of from 0.3 to 0.8 preferably from 0.5 to0.75, preferably from 0.55 to 0.65.

The elements herein may have a predetermined cross-sectional shapeprojected along the Z-axe of the element having a form factor,preferably a mean form factor, of from 0.1 to 0.7 preferably from 0.1 to0.5, preferably from 0.15 to 0.35 and more preferably from 0.2 to 0.3.

Solidity:

Solidity is a quantitative, 2-dimensional image analysis shapedescription, and is being measured according to ISO 9276-6:2008(E)section 8.2. Solidity is a mesoshape parameter, which describes theoverall concavity of a particle/particle population. Solidity valuesrange from 0 to 1, where a solidity number of 1 describes a non-concaveparticle, as measured in literature as being:Solidity=A/Ac

Where A is the area of the particle and Ac (or Ahull) is the area of theconvex hull (envelope) of bounding the particle. The applicants referherein to mean data, wherein mean data are extracted from volume-basedvs. number-based measurements

The elements herein may have a predetermined shape having a solidity,preferably a mean solidity from greater than 0.85 to 1, preferably from0.90 to 1, preferably from 0.95 to 1.

The elements herein may have a predetermined cross-sectional shapeprojected along the Z-axe of the element having a solidity, preferably amean solidity, of from 0.2 to 0.8, preferably from 0.35 to 0.75,preferably from 0.4 to 0.7, and more preferably from 0.5 to 0.65.

The abrasive particles may have a particle solidity of from 0.85 to 1,preferably from 0.9 to 1, more preferably from 0.95 to 1, and a particleform factor of from 0.3 to 0.8, according to ISO 9276-6.

Solidity is sometime also named Convexity in literature or in someapparatus software using the solidity formula in place of its definitiondescribed in ISO 9276-6 (convexity=Pc/P where P is the length of theperimeter of the particle and P_(C) or P_(hull) is length of theperimeter of the convex hull—envelope—bounding the particle or elementcross section). Despite solidity and convexity being similar mesoshapedescriptor in concept, the applicant refers herein to the soliditymeasure expressed to the definition herein.

Feret diameters F_(max) and F_(min):

The Feret diameter is a geometrical shape descriptor based on thedistance between parallel tangents of a particle's shape. Suchdescriptor essentially defines the elongation of the particle withrespect to maximum and minimum parallel tangent diameters. The maximumdiameter F_(max) corresponds to the “length” of the particle and theminimum diameter F_(min) corresponds to the “breadth” of the particle,and is measured according to ISO 9276-6:2008(E) section 8.1.2.

The particles, in particular the cross-section projected along the Z-axeof the elements herein, may have a maximum Feret diameter F_(max) offrom 100 μm to 800 μm, preferably from 200 μm to 500 μm, more preferablyfrom 250 μm to 400 μm, and a minimum Feret diameter F_(min) of from 50μm to 350 μm. The applicants identified that this combination of valuesof both the Feret diameters F_(max) and F_(min) are optimal for typical3-body cleaning systems and mechanisms observed in homecare orbeautycare cleaning occurrence given the size or thickness of thetypical soils and soil layers, the typical roughness topography of thesurfaces to clean and especially the typical porosity of the cleaningimplement such as natural or synthetic sponge or paper or nonwovensubstrates.

In an alternative embodiment, particularly for certain applications suchas oral care, the particles, in particular the cross-section projectedalong the Z-axe of the elements herein, may have a maximum Feretdiameter F_(max) of from 5 μm to 50 μm, preferably from 8 μm to 30 μm,more preferably from 10 μm to 25 μm, and a minimum Feret diameterF_(min) of from 2 μm to 15 μm. The applicants identified that thiscombination of values of both the Feret diameters F_(max) and F_(min)are optimal in for typical 3-body cleaning systems and mechanismsobserved in oral care cleaning especially to achieve a good compromisebetween an efficient cleaning and a comfortable feel sensation in mouthinherent to the size and shape of the particles.

Aspect Ratio F_(min)/F_(max)

The aspect ratio as defined in ISO 9276-6:2008(E) section 8.1.3. Theapplicants are defining the aspect ratio of being the ratio of the Feretdiameters Fmin/Fmax of the cross-sectional shape projected along theZ-axe of the element, preferably the mean aspect ratio of all particles.The applicants found that the effective aspect ratio needed to preventthe particle(s) from rolling around it (their) Z-axe(s) during thecleaning event, is substantially below 1, preferably from 0.1 to 0.7,preferably from 0.2 to 0.6, more preferably from 0.3 to 0.55, morepreferably from 0.35 to 0.55.

Area-Equivalent Diameter “ECD”:

The area-equivalent diameter of the elements herein (ISO 9276-6:2008(E)section 7) also called Equivalent Circle Diameter “ECD” (ASTM F1877-05Section 11.3.2) is calculated by following the method herein, preferablyaccording to ISO 9276-6:2008(E) section 7.

The area-equivalent diameter “ECD”, preferably the mean area-equivalentdiameter “mean ECD₁”, of the elements herein may be from 100 μm to 800μm, preferably from 100 μm to 500 μm, more preferably from 150 μm to 350μm, even more preferably from 200 μm to 300 μm. Alternatively for someapplications such as for oral care, the area-equivalent diameter “ECD”,preferably the mean area-equivalent diameter “mean ECD” of the elementsherein may be from 5 μm to 50 μm, preferably from 5 μm to 30 μm, morepreferably from 5 to 20 μm.

Perimeter-Equivalent Diameter “ECD P_(Hull)”.

The perimeter-equivalent diameter “ECD P_(Hull)” is the diameter of acircle having a perimeter equivalent to P_(Hull) whereas P_(Hull) is thelength of the perimeter of the convex hull (envelope) bounding theparticle (ISO 9276-6:2008).

The perimeter-equivalent diameter “ECD P_(Hull)”, preferably the meanperimeter-equivalent diameter “mean ECD P_(Hull)”, of thecross-sectional shape projected along the Z-axe of the elements hereinmay be from 100 μm to 800 μm, preferably from 150 μm to 350 μm morepreferably from 200 μm to 300 μm. Alternatively for some applicationssuch as for oral care, the perimeter-equivalent diameter “ECD P_(Hull)”,preferably the mean perimeter-equivalent diameter “mean ECD P_(Hull)”,of the cross-sectional shape projected along the Z-axe of the elementsherein may be from 2 μm to 50 μm, preferably from 5 μm to 20 μm.

Ratio L/ECD P_(Hull):

The ratio L to ECD P_(Hull), is an effective parameter defining theparticle's ability to effectively orient for optimal cleaning andscraping of soil from a surface.

In a preferred embodiment elements herein have a ratio L to ECDP_(Hull), preferably a ratio mean L to mean ECD P_(Hull), of from 0.5 to3, preferably from 0.8 to 2.5, more preferably from 1 to 2, even morepreferably from 1.3 to 1.7. The advantage of this embodiment is that ofimproved cleaning and surface safety effectiveness.

By the term “mean form factor” or “mean solidity”, “mean Feretdiameters”, “mean Area-equivalent diameter”, “mean Perimeter-equivalentdiameter”, etc., the applicant consider the average of the values ofeach particle taken from a population of at least 1000, preferably above10 000 particles, preferably above 50 000 particles, more preferablyabove 100 000 particles, including particles having area-equivalentdiameter (ECD) of above 10 microns for general applications purposesexcept for oral care purpose whereas particles having area-equivalentdiameter (ECD) of above 1 microns are included in the computation. Meandata are extracted from volume-based vs. number-based measurements.

Optionally, the particles with above defined mesoshape descriptors maybe mixed with more granular/spherical type of abrasives. In that case,the applicant considers the value range as described above to apply tothe final mix.

Optional Ingredients

The compositions according to the present invention may comprise avariety of optional ingredients depending on the technical benefit aimedfor and the surface treated.

Suitable optional ingredients for use herein include chelating agents,surfactants, radical scavengers, perfumes, surface-modifying polymers,solvents, builders, buffers, bactericides, hydrotropes, colorants,stabilizers, bleaches, bleach activators, suds controlling agents likefatty acids, enzymes, soil suspenders, brighteners, anti dusting agents,dispersants, pigments, and dyes.

Suspending Aid

The abrasive cleaning particles present in the composition herein aresolid particles in a liquid composition. Said abrasive cleaningparticles may be suspended in the liquid composition. However, it iswell within the scope of the present invention that such abrasivecleaning particles are not-stably suspended within the composition andeither settle or float on top of the composition. In this case, a usermay have to temporally suspend the abrasive cleaning particles byagitating (e.g., shaking or stirring) the composition prior to use.

However, it is preferred herein that the abrasive cleaning particles arestably suspended in the liquid compositions herein. Thus thecompositions herein comprise a suspending aid.

The suspending aid herein may either be a compound specifically chosento provide a suspension of the abrasive cleaning particles in the liquidcompositions of the present invention, such as a structurant, or acompound that also provides another function, such as a thickener or asurfactant (as described herein elsewhere).

Any suitable organic and inorganic suspending aids typically used asgelling, thickening or suspending agents in cleaning/cleansingcompositions and other detergent or cosmetic compositions may be usedherein. Indeed, suitable organic suspending aids include polysaccharidepolymers. In addition or as an alternative, polycarboxylate polymerthickeners may be used herein. Also, in addition or as an alternative ofthe above, layered silicate platelets e.g.: Hectorite, bentonite ormontmorillonites can also be used. Suitable commercially availablelayered silicates are Laponite RD® or Optigel CL® available fromRockwood Additives.

Suitable polycarboxylate polymer thickeners include (preferably lightly)crosslinked polyacrylate. A particularly suitable polycarboxylatepolymer thickeners is Carbopol commercially available from Lubrizolunder the trade name Carbopol 674®.

Suitable polysaccharide polymers for use herein include substitutedcellulose materials like carboxymethylcellulose, ethyl cellulose,hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxymethylcellulose, succinoglycan and naturally occurring polysaccharide polymerslike Xanthan gum, gellan gum, guar gum, locust bean gum, tragacanth gum,succinoglucan gum, or derivatives thereof, or mixtures thereof. Xanthangum is commercially available from Kelco under the tradename Kelzan T.

Preferably the suspending aid herein is Xanthan gum. In an alternativeembodiment, the suspending aid herein is a polycarboxylate polymerthickeners preferably a (preferably lightly) crosslinked polyacrylate.In a highly preferred embodiment herein, the liquid compositionscomprise a combination of a polysaccharide polymer or a mixture thereof,preferably Xanthan gum, with a polycarboxylate polymer or a mixturethereof, preferably a crosslinked polyacrylate. As a preferred example,Xanthan gum is preferably present at levels between 0.1% to 5% by weightof the total composition, more preferably from 0.5% to 2%, even morepreferably from 0.8% to 1.2%.

Organic Solvent

As an optional but highly preferred ingredient the composition hereincomprises an organic solvents or mixtures thereof.

The compositions herein comprise from 0% to 30% by weight of the totalcomposition of an organic solvent or a mixture thereof, more preferably1.0% to 20% and most preferably, 2% to 15%.

Suitable solvents can be selected from the group consisting of:aliphatic alcohols, ethers and diethers having from 4 to 14 carbonatoms, preferably from 6 to 12 carbon atoms, and more preferably from 8to 10 carbon atoms; glycols or alkoxylated glycols; glycol ethers;alkoxylated aromatic alcohols; aromatic alcohols; terpenes; and mixturesthereof. Aliphatic alcohols and glycol ether solvents are mostpreferred.

Aliphatic alcohols, of the formula R—OH wherein R is a linear orbranched, saturated or unsaturated alkyl group of from 1 to 20 carbonatoms, preferably from 2 to 15 and more preferably from 5 to 12, aresuitable solvents. Suitable aliphatic alcohols are methanol, ethanol,propanol, isopropanol or mixtures thereof. Among aliphatic alcohols,ethanol and isopropanol are most preferred because of their high vapourpressure and tendency to leave no residue.

Suitable glycols to be used herein are according to the formulaHO—CR₁R₂—OH wherein R1 and R2 are independently H or a C₂-C₁₀ saturatedor unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon chain and/or cyclic. Suitableglycols to be used herein are dodecaneglycol and/or propanediol.

In one preferred embodiment, at least one glycol ether solvent isincorporated in the compositions of the present invention. Particularlypreferred glycol ethers have a terminal C₃-C₆ hydrocarbon attached tofrom one to three ethylene glycol or propylene glycol moieties toprovide the appropriate degree of hydrophobicity and, preferably,surface activity. Examples of commercially available solvents based onethylene glycol chemistry include mono-ethylene glycol n-hexyl ether(Hexyl Cellosolve®) available from Dow Chemical. Examples ofcommercially available solvents based on propylene glycol chemistryinclude the di-, and tri-propylene glycol derivatives of propyl andbutyl alcohol, which are available from Arco under the trade namesArcosolv® and Dowanol®.

In the context of the present invention, preferred solvents are selectedfrom the group consisting of mono-propylene glycol mono-propyl ether,di-propylene glycol mono-propyl ether, mono-propylene glycol mono-butylether, di-propylene glycol mono-propyl ether, di-propylene glycolmono-butyl ether; tri-propylene glycol mono-butyl ether; ethylene glycolmono-butyl ether; di-ethylene glycol mono-butyl ether, ethylene glycolmono-hexyl ether and di-ethylene glycol mono-hexyl ether, and mixturesthereof. “Butyl” includes normal butyl, isobutyl and tertiary butylgroups. Mono-propylene glycol and mono-propylene glycol mono-butyl etherare the most preferred cleaning solvent and are available under thetradenames Dowanol DPnP® and Dowanol DPnB®. Di-propylene glycolmono-t-butyl ether is commercially available from Arco Chemical underthe tradename Arcosolv PTB®.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the cleaning solvent is purifiedso as to minimize impurities. Such impurities include aldehydes, dimers,trimers, oligomers and other by-products. These have been found todeleteriously affect product odour, perfume solubility and end result.The inventors have also found that common commercial solvents, whichcontain low levels of aldehydes, can cause irreversible and irreparableyellowing of certain surfaces. By purifying the cleaning solvents so asto minimize or eliminate such impurities, surface damage is attenuatedor eliminated.

Though not preferred, terpenes can be used in the present invention.Suitable terpenes to be used herein monocyclic terpenes, dicyclicterpenes and/or acyclic terpenes. Suitable terpenes are: D-limonene;pinene; pine oil; terpinene; terpene derivatives as menthol, terpineol,geraniol, thymol; and the citronella or citronellol types ofingredients.

Suitable alkoxylated aromatic alcohols to be used herein are accordingto the formula R-(A)_(n)-OH wherein R is an alkyl substituted ornon-alkyl substituted aryl group of from 1 to 20 carbon atoms,preferably from 2 to 15 and more preferably from 2 to 10, wherein A isan alkoxy group preferably butoxy, propoxy and/or ethoxy, and n is aninteger of from 1 to 5, preferably 1 to 2. Suitable alkoxylated aromaticalcohols are benzoxyethanol and/or benzoxypropanol.

Suitable aromatic alcohols to be used herein are according to theformula R—OH wherein R is an alkyl substituted or non-alkyl substitutedaryl group of from 1 to 20 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to 15 andmore preferably from 1 to 10. For example a suitable aromatic alcohol tobe used herein is benzyl alcohol.

Surfactants

The compositions herein may comprise a nonionic, anionic, zwitterionic,cationic and amphoteric surfactant or mixtures thereof. Suitablesurfactants are those selected from the group consisting of nonionic,anionic, zwitterionic, cationic and amphoteric surfactants, havinghydrophobic chains containing from 8 to 18 carbon atoms. Examples ofsuitable surfactants are described in McCutcheon's Vol. 1: Emulsifiersand Detergents, North American Ed., McCutcheon Division, MC PublishingCo., 2002.

Preferably, the composition herein comprises from 0.01% to 20% by weightof the total composition of a surfactant or a mixture thereof, morepreferably from 0.5% to 10%, and most preferably from 1% to 5%.

Non-ionic surfactants are highly preferred for use in the compositionsof the present invention. Non-limiting examples of suitable non-ionicsurfactants include alcohol alkoxylates, alkyl polysaccharides, amineoxides, block copolymers of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, fluorosurfactants and silicon based surfactants. Preferably, the aqueouscompositions comprise from 0.01% to 20% by weight of the totalcomposition of a non-ionic surfactant or a mixture thereof, morepreferably from 0.5% to 10%, and most preferably from 1% to 5%.

A preferred class of non-ionic surfactants suitable for the presentinvention is alkyl ethoxylates. The alkyl ethoxylates of the presentinvention are either linear or branched, and contain from 8 carbon atomsto 16 carbon atoms in the hydrophobic tail, and from 3 ethylene oxideunits to 25 ethylene oxide units in the hydrophilic head group. Examplesof alkyl ethoxylates include Neodol 91-6®, Neodol 91-8® supplied by theShell Corporation (P.O. Box 2463, 1 Shell Plaza, Houston, Tex.), andAlfonic 810-60® supplied by Condea Corporation, (900 Threadneedle P.O.Box 19029, Houston, Tex.). More preferred alkyl ethoxylates comprisefrom 9 to 12 carbon atoms in the hydrophobic tail, and from 4 to 9 oxideunits in the hydrophilic head group. A most preferred alkyl ethoxylateis C₉₋₁₁ EO₅, available from the Shell Chemical Company under thetradename Neodol 91-5®. Non-ionic ethoxylates can also be derived frombranched alcohols. For example, alcohols can be made from branchedolefin feedstocks such as propylene or butylene. In a preferredembodiment, the branched alcohol is either a 2-propyl-1-heptyl alcoholor 2-butyl-1-octyl alcohol. A desirable branched alcohol ethoxylate is2-propyl-1-heptyl EO7/AO7, manufactured and sold by BASF Corporationunder the tradename Lutensol XP 79/XL 79®.

Another class of non-ionic surfactant suitable for the present inventionis alkyl polysaccharides. Such surfactants are disclosed in U.S. Pat.Nos. 4,565,647, 5,776,872, 5,883,062, and 5,906,973. Among alkylpolysaccharides, alkyl polyglycosides comprising five and/or six carbonsugar rings are preferred, those comprising six carbon sugar rings aremore preferred, and those wherein the six carbon sugar ring is derivedfrom glucose, i.e., alkyl polyglucosides (“APG”), are most preferred.The alkyl substituent in the APG chain length is preferably a saturatedor unsaturated alkyl moiety containing from 8 to 16 carbon atoms, withan average chain length of 10 carbon atoms. C₈-C₁₆ alkyl polyglucosidesare commercially available from several suppliers (e.g., Simusol®surfactants from Seppic Corporation, 75 Quai d'Orsay, 75321 Paris, Cedex7, France, and Glucopon 220®, Glucopon 225®, Glucopon 425®, Plantaren2000 N®, and Plantaren 2000 N UP®, from Cognis Corporation, Postfach 1301 64, D 40551, Dusseldorf, Germany).

Another class of non-ionic surfactant suitable for the present inventionis amine oxide. Amine oxides, particularly those comprising from 10carbon atoms to 16 carbon atoms in the hydrophobic tail, are beneficialbecause of their strong cleaning profile and effectiveness even atlevels below 0.10%. Additionally C₁₀₋₁₆ amine oxides, especially C₁₂-C₁₄amine oxides are excellent solubilizers of perfume. Alternativenon-ionic detergent surfactants for use herein are alkoxylated alcoholsgenerally comprising from 8 to 16 carbon atoms in the hydrophobic alkylchain of the alcohol. Typical alkoxylation groups are propoxy groups orethoxy groups in combination with propoxy groups, yielding alkyl ethoxypropoxylates. Such compounds are commercially available under thetradename Antarox® available from Rhodia (40 Rue de la Haie-Coq F-93306,Aubervilliers Cédex, France) and under the tradename Nonidet® availablefrom Shell Chemical.

The condensation products of ethylene oxide with a hydrophobic baseformed by the condensation of propylene oxide with propylene glycol arealso suitable for use herein. The hydrophobic portion of these compoundswill preferably have a molecular weight of from 1500 to 1800 and willexhibit water insolubility. The addition of polyoxyethylene moieties tothis hydrophobic portion tends to increase the water solubility of themolecule as a whole, and the liquid character of the product is retainedup to the point where the polyoxyethylene content is about 50% of thetotal weight of the condensation product, which corresponds tocondensation with up to 40 moles of ethylene oxide. Examples ofcompounds of this type include certain of the commercially availablePluronic® surfactants, marketed by BASF. Chemically, such surfactantshave the structure (EO)_(x)(PO)_(y)(EO)_(z) or (PO)_(x)(EO)_(y)(PO)_(z)wherein x, y, and z are from 1 to 100, preferably 3 to 50. Pluronic®surfactants known to be good wetting surfactants are more preferred. Adescription of the Pluronic® surfactants, and properties thereof,including wetting properties, can be found in the brochure entitled“BASF Performance Chemicals Plutonic® & Tetronic® Surfactants”,available from BASF.

Other suitable though not preferred non-ionic surfactants include thepolyethylene oxide condensates of alkyl phenols, e.g., the condensationproducts of alkyl phenols having an alkyl group containing from 6 to 12carbon atoms in either a straight chain or branched chain configuration,with ethylene oxide, the said ethylene oxide being present in amountsequal to 5 to 25 moles of ethylene oxide per mole of alkyl phenol. Thealkyl substituent in such compounds can be derived from oligomerizedpropylene, diisobutylene, or from other sources of iso-octane n-octane,iso-nonane or n-nonane. Other non-ionic surfactants that can be usedinclude those derived from natural sources such as sugars and includeC₈-C₁₆ N-alkyl glucose amide surfactants.

Suitable anionic surfactants for use herein are all those commonly knownby those skilled in the art. Preferably, the anionic surfactants for useherein include alkyl sulphonates, alkyl aryl sulphonates, alkylsulphates, alkyl alkoxylated sulphates, C₆-C₂₀ alkyl alkoxylated linearor branched diphenyl oxide disulphonates, or mixtures thereof.

Suitable alkyl sulphonates for use herein include water-soluble salts oracids of the formula RSO₃M wherein R is a C₆-C₂₀ linear or branched,saturated or unsaturated alkyl group, preferably a C₈-C₁₈ alkyl groupand more preferably a C₁₀-C₁₆ alkyl group, and M is H or a cation, e.g.,an alkali metal cation (e.g., sodium, potassium, lithium), or ammoniumor substituted ammonium (e.g., methyl-, dimethyl-, and trimethylammonium cations and quaternary ammonium cations, such astetramethyl-ammonium and dimethyl piperdinium cations and quaternaryammonium cations derived from alkylamines such as ethylamine,diethylamine, triethylamine, and mixtures thereof, and the like).

Suitable alkyl aryl sulphonates for use herein include water-solublesalts or acids of the formula RSO₃M wherein R is an aryl, preferably abenzyl, substituted by a C₆-C₂₀ linear or branched saturated orunsaturated alkyl group, preferably a C₈-C₁₈ alkyl group and morepreferably a C₁₀-C₁₆ alkyl group, and M is H or a cation, e.g., analkali metal cation (e.g., sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium,magnesium and the like) or ammonium or substituted ammonium (e.g.,methyl-, dimethyl-, and trimethyl ammonium cations and quaternaryammonium cations, such as tetramethyl-ammonium and dimethyl piperdiniumcations and quaternary ammonium cations derived from alkylamines such asethylamine, diethylamine, triethylamine, and mixtures thereof, and thelike).

An example of a C₁₄-C₁₆ alkyl sulphonate is Hostapur® SAS available fromHoechst. An example of commercially available alkyl aryl sulphonate isLauryl aryl sulphonate from Su.Ma. Particularly preferred alkyl arylsulphonates are alkyl benzene sulphonates commercially available undertrade name Nansa® available from Albright & Wilson.

Suitable alkyl sulphate surfactants for use herein are according to theformula R₁SO₄M wherein R₁ represents a hydrocarbon group selected fromthe group consisting of straight or branched alkyl radicals containingfrom 6 to 20 carbon atoms and alkyl phenyl radicals containing from 6 to18 carbon atoms in the alkyl group. M is H or a cation, e.g., an alkalimetal cation (e.g., sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium andthe like) or ammonium or substituted ammonium (e.g., methyl-, dimethyl-,and trimethyl ammonium cations and quaternary ammonium cations, such astetramethyl-ammonium and dimethyl piperdinium cations and quaternaryammonium cations derived from alkylamines such as ethylamine,diethylamine, triethylamine, and mixtures thereof, and the like).Particularly preferred branched alkyl sulphates to be used herein arethose containing from 10 to 14 total carbon atoms like Isalchem 123 AS®.Isalchem 123 AS® commercially available from Enichem is a C₁₂-C₁₃surfactant which is 94% branched. This material can be described asCH₃—(CH₂)_(m)—CH(CH₂OSO₃Na)—(CH₂)_(n)—CH₃ where n+m=8-9. Also preferredalkyl sulphates are the alkyl sulphates where the alkyl chain comprisesa total of 12 carbon atoms, i.e., sodium 2-butyl octyl sulphate. Suchalkyl sulphate is commercially available from Condea under the tradename Isofol® 12S. Particularly suitable liner alkyl sulphonates includeC₁₂-C₁₆ paraffin sulphonate like Hostapur® SAS commercially availablefrom Hoechst.

Suitable alkyl alkoxylated sulphate surfactants for use herein areaccording to the formula RO(A)_(m)SO₃M wherein R is an unsubstitutedC₆-C₂₀ alkyl or hydroxyalkyl group having a C₆-C₂₀ alkyl component,preferably a C₁₂-C₂₀ alkyl or hydroxyalkyl, more preferably C₁₂-C₁₈alkyl or hydroxyalkyl, A is an ethoxy or propoxy unit, m is greater thanzero, typically between 0.5 and 6, more preferably between 0.5 and 3,and M is H or a cation which can be, for example, a metal cation (e.g.,sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, etc.), ammonium orsubstituted-ammonium cation. Alkyl ethoxylated sulfates as well as alkylpropoxylated sulfates are contemplated herein. Specific examples ofsubstituted ammonium cations include methyl-, dimethyl-,trimethyl-ammonium and quaternary ammonium cations, such astetramethyl-ammonium, dimethyl piperdinium and cations derived fromalkanolamines such as ethylamine, diethylamine, triethylamine, mixturesthereof, and the like. Exemplary surfactants are C₁₂-C₁₈ alkylpolyethoxylate (1.0) sulfate (C₁₂-C₁₈E(1.0)SM), C₁₂-C₁₈ alkylpolyethoxylate (2.25) sulfate (C₁₂-C₁₈E(2.25)SM), C₁₂-C₁₈ alkylpolyethoxylate (3.0) sulfate (C₁₂-C₁₈E(3.0)SM), C₁₂-C₁₈ alkylpolyethoxylate (4.0) sulfate (C₁₂-C₁₈E (4.0)SM), wherein M isconveniently selected from sodium and potassium.

Suitable C₆-C₂₀ alkyl alkoxylated linear or branched diphenyl oxidedisulphonate surfactants for use herein are according to the followingformula:

wherein R is a C₆-C₂₀ linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated alkylgroup, preferably a C₁₂-C₁₈ alkyl group and more preferably a C₁₄-C₁₆alkyl group, and X+ is H or a cation, e.g., an alkali metal cation(e.g., sodium, potassium, lithium, calcium, magnesium and the like).Particularly suitable C₆-C₂₀ alkyl alkoxylated linear or brancheddiphenyl oxide disulphonate surfactants to be used herein are the C₁₂branched di phenyl oxide disulphonic acid and C₁₆ linear di phenyl oxidedisulphonate sodium salt respectively commercially available by DOWunder the trade name Dowfax 2A1® and Dowfax 8390®.

Other anionic surfactants useful herein include salts (including, forexample, sodium, potassium, ammonium, and substituted ammonium saltssuch as mono-, di- and triethanolamine salts) of soap, C₈-C₂₄olefinsulfonates, sulphonated polycarboxylic acids prepared bysulphonation of the pyrolyzed product of alkaline earth metal citrates,e.g., as described in British patent specification No. 1,082,179, C₈-C₂₄alkylpolyglycolethersulfates (containing up to 10 moles of ethyleneoxide); alkyl ester sulfonates such as C₁₄-C₁₆ methyl ester sulfonates;acyl glycerol sulfonates, fatty oleyl glycerol sulfates, alkyl phenolethylene oxide ether sulfates, alkyl phosphates, isethionates such asthe acyl isethionates, N-acyl taurates, alkyl succinamates andsulfosuccinates, monoesters of sulfosuccinate (especially saturated andunsaturated C₁₂-C₁₈ monoesters) diesters of sulfosuccinate (especiallysaturated and unsaturated C₆-C₁₄ diesters), acyl sarcosinates, sulfatesof alkylpolysaccharides such as the sulfates of alkylpolyglucoside (thenonionic nonsulfated compounds being described below), alkyl polyethoxycarboxylates such as those of the formula RO(CH₂CH₂O)_(k)CH₂COO⁻M⁺wherein R is a C₈-C₂₂ alkyl, k is an integer from 0 to 10, and M is asoluble salt-forming cation. Resin acids and hydrogenated resin acidsare also suitable, such as rosin, hydrogenated rosin, and resin acidsand hydrogenated resin acids present in or derived from tall oil.Further examples are given in “Surface Active Agents and Detergents”(Vol. I and II by Schwartz, Perry and Berch). A variety of suchsurfactants are also generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,929,678,issued Dec. 30, 1975 to Laughlin, et al. at Column 23, line 58 throughColumn 29, line 23.

Zwitterionic surfactants represent another class of preferredsurfactants within the context of the present invention.

Zwitterionic surfactants contain both cationic and anionic groups on thesame molecule over a wide pH range. The typical cationic group is aquaternary ammonium group, although other positively charged groups likesulfonium and phosphonium groups can also be used. The typical anionicgroups are carboxylates and sulfonates, preferably sulfonates, althoughother groups like sulfates, phosphates and the like, can be used. Somecommon examples of these detergents are described in the patentliterature: U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,082,275, 2,702,279 and 2,255,082.

A specific example of a zwitterionic surfactant is3-(N-dodecyl-N,N-dimethyl)-2-hydroxypropane-1-sulfonate (Lauryl hydroxylsultaine) available from the McIntyre Company (24601 Governors Highway,University Park, Ill. 60466, USA) under the tradename Mackam LHS®.Another specific zwitterionic surfactant is C₁₂₋₁₄ acylamidopropylene(hydroxypropylene) sulfobetaine that is available from McIntyre underthe tradename Mackam 50-SB®. Other very useful zwitterionic surfactantsinclude hydrocarbyl, e.g., fatty alkylene betaines. A highly preferredzwitterionic surfactant is Empigen BB®, a coco dimethyl betaine producedby Albright & Wilson. Another equally preferred zwitterionic surfactantis Mackam 35HP®, a coco amido propyl betaine produced by McIntyre.

Another class of preferred surfactants comprises the group consisting ofamphoteric surfactants. One suitable amphoteric surfactant is a C₈-C₁₆amido alkylene glycinate surfactant (‘ampho glycinate’). Anothersuitable amphoteric surfactant is a C₈-C₁₆ amido alkylene propionatesurfactant (‘ampho propionate’). Other suitable, amphoteric surfactantsare represented by surfactants such as dodecylbeta-alanine,N-alkyltaurines such as the one prepared by reacting dodecylamine withsodium isethionate according to the teaching of U.S. Pat. No. 2,658,072,N-higher alkylaspartic acids such as those produced according to theteaching of U.S. Pat. No. 2,438,091, and the products sold under thetrade name “Miranol®”, and described in U.S. Pat. No. 2,528,378.

Chelating Agents

One class of optional compounds for use herein includes chelating agentsor mixtures thereof. Chelating agents can be incorporated in thecompositions herein in amounts ranging from 0.0% to 10.0% by weight ofthe total composition, preferably 0.01% to 5.0%.

Suitable phosphonate chelating agents for use herein may include alkalimetal ethane 1-hydroxy diphosphonates (HEDP), alkylene poly (alkylenephosphonate), as well as amino phosphonate compounds, including aminoaminotri(methylene phosphonic acid) (ATMP), nitrilo trimethylenephosphonates (NTP), ethylene diamine tetra methylene phosphonates, anddiethylene triamine penta methylene phosphonates (DTPMP). Thephosphonate compounds may be present either in their acid form or assalts of different cations on some or all of their acid functionalities.Preferred phosphonate chelating agents to be used herein are diethylenetriamine penta methylene phosphonate (DTPMP) and ethane 1-hydroxydiphosphonate (HEDP). Such phosphonate chelating agents are commerciallyavailable from Monsanto under the trade name DEQUEST®.

Polyfunctionally-substituted aromatic chelating agents may also beuseful in the compositions herein. See U.S. Pat. No. 3,812,044, issuedMay 21, 1974, to Connor et al. Preferred compounds of this type in acidform are dihydroxydisulfobenzenes such as1,2-dihydroxy-3,5-disulfobenzene.

A preferred biodegradable chelating agent for use herein is ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acid, or alkali metal, or alkaline earth,ammonium or substitutes ammonium salts thereof or mixtures thereof.Ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acids, especially the (S,S) isomer havebeen extensively described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,704,233, Nov. 3, 1987, toHartman and Perkins. Ethylenediamine N,N′-disuccinic acids is, forinstance, commercially available under the tradename ssEDDS® from PalmerResearch Laboratories.

Suitable amino carboxylates for use herein include ethylene diaminetetra acetates, diethylene triamine pentaacetates, diethylene triaminepentaacetate (DTPA), N-hydroxyethylethylenediamine triacetates,nitrilotri-acetates, ethylenediamine tetrapropionates,triethylenetetraaminehexa-acetates, ethanol-diglycines, propylenediamine tetracetic acid (PDTA) and methyl glycine di-acetic acid (MGDA),both in their acid form, or in their alkali metal, ammonium, andsubstituted ammonium salt forms. Particularly suitable aminocarboxylates to be used herein are diethylene triamine penta aceticacid, propylene diamine tetracetic acid (PDTA) which is, for instance,commercially available from BASF under the trade name Trilon FS® andmethyl glycine di-acetic acid (MGDA).

Further carboxylate chelating agents for use herein include salicylicacid, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, glycine, malonic acid or mixturesthereof.

Radical Scavenger

The compositions of the present invention may further comprise a radicalscavenger or a mixture thereof.

Suitable radical scavengers for use herein include the well-knownsubstituted mono and dihydroxy benzenes and their analogs, alkyl andaryl carboxylates and mixtures thereof. Preferred such radicalscavengers for use herein include di-tert-butyl hydroxy toluene (BHT),hydroquinone, di-tert-butyl hydroquinone, mono-tert-butyl hydroquinone,tert-butyl-hydroxy anysole, benzoic acid, toluic acid, catechol, t-butylcatechol, benzylamine, 1,1,3-tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butylphenyl)butane, n-propyl-gallate or mixtures thereof and highly preferred isdi-tert-butyl hydroxy toluene. Such radical scavengers likeN-propyl-gallate may be commercially available from Nipa Laboratoriesunder the trade name Nipanox S1®.

Radical scavengers, when used, may be typically present herein inamounts up to 10% by weight of the total composition and preferably from0.001% to 0.5%. The presence of radical scavengers may contribute to thechemical stability of the compositions of the present invention.

Perfume

Suitable perfume compounds and compositions for use herein are forexample those described in EP-A-0 957 156 under the paragraph entitled“Perfume”, on page 13. The compositions herein may comprise a perfumeingredient, or mixtures thereof, in amounts up to 5.0% by weight of thetotal composition, preferably in amounts of 0.1% to 1.5%.

Dye

The liquid compositions according to the present invention may becoloured. Accordingly, they may comprise a dye or a mixture thereof.

Delivery Form of the Compositions

The compositions herein may be packaged in a variety of suitablepackaging known to those skilled in the art, such as plastic bottles forpouring liquid compositions, squeeze bottles or bottles equipped with atrigger sprayer for spraying liquid compositions. Alternatively, thepaste-like compositions according to the present invention may bypackaged in a tube.

In an alternative embodiment herein, a kit is provided comprising theliquid composition herein and a substrate, preferably said substrate isimpregnated with said composition, preferably the substrate is in theform of a flexible, thin sheet or a block of material, such as a sponge.

Suitable substrates are woven or non-woven sheets, cellulosic materialbased sheets, sponge or foam with open cell structures e.g.:polyurethane foams, cellulosic foam, melamine foam, etc.

Alternatively, the substrate may comprise, or be coated with, theabrasive particles described herein in absence or in combination with aliquid cleaning composition.

The Process of Cleaning a Surface

The present invention encompasses a process of cleaning and/or cleansinga surface with a liquid composition according to the present invention.Suitable surfaces herein are described herein above under the heading“The liquid cleaning/cleansing composition”.

In a preferred embodiment said surface is contacted with the compositionaccording to the present invention, preferably wherein said compositionis applied onto said surface.

In another preferred embodiment, the process herein comprises the stepsof dispensing (e.g., by spraying, pouring, squeezing) the liquidcomposition according to the present invention from a containercontaining said liquid composition and thereafter cleaning and/orcleansing said surface.

The composition herein may be in its neat form or in its diluted form.

By “in its neat form”, it is to be understood that said liquidcomposition is applied directly onto the surface to be treated withoutundergoing any dilution, i.e., the liquid composition herein is appliedonto the surface as described herein.

By “diluted form”, it is meant herein that said liquid composition isdiluted by the user typically with water. The liquid composition isdiluted prior to use to a typical dilution level of up to 10 times itsweight of water. A usually recommended dilution level is a 10% dilutionof the composition in water.

The composition herein may be applied using an appropriate implement,such as a mop, paper towel, brush (e.g., a toothbrush) or a cloth, orapplied directly by hand, soaked in the diluted or neat compositionherein. Furthermore, once applied onto said surface said composition maybe agitated over said surface using an appropriate implement. Indeed,said surface may be wiped using a mop, paper towel, brush or a cloth.

The process herein may additionally contain a rinsing step, preferablyafter the application of said composition. By “rinsing”, it is meantherein contacting the surface cleaned/cleansed with the processaccording to the present invention with substantial quantities ofappropriate solvent, typically water, directly after the step ofapplying the liquid composition herein onto said surface. By“substantial quantities”, it is meant herein between 0.01 lt. and 1 lt.of water per m² of surface, more preferably between 0.1 lt. and 1 lt. ofwater per m² of surface.

In a preferred embodiment herein, process of cleaning is a process ofcleaning household hard surfaces with a liquid composition according topresent invention.

The Process for Generating Shaped Particles

A process for generating shaped non-spherical and/or non-rollingabrasive cleaning particles for use in a liquid cleaning and/orcleansing composition, may comprise the steps of:

-   -   i. extruding a material, preferably a thermoplastic or mineral        material (preferably a curable mineral comprising slurry),        through an extruder nozzle orifice along an extruding axis,        preferably wherein the temperature at said nozzle is kept at a        temperature Tn, wherein Tn=Tm−T, and T is greater than 20° C.,        preferably from 30° C. to 180° C., more preferably from 50° C.        to 150° C., Tm being the melting temperature of said        thermoplastic material;    -   ii. slicing the extruded thermoplastic material into extruded        elements having a predetermined length, preferably length “L”;        and    -   iii. optionally adding said extruded elements to a composition,        preferably a liquid detergent composition or impregnated        substrate,        wherein the extruder nozzle orifice has a predetermined shape        and comprises a complex cross-sectional shape on a plane        perpendicular to said extruding axis, said complex        cross-sectional shape being the inverse image of the complex        cross-sectional shape of the extruded elements herein.

In a preferred embodiment the extruded elements are cooled immediatelyafter exiting the extruder nozzle such that the temperature of the outersurfaces of the extruded element drops by at least 30%, preferably atleast 40%, preferably at least 50%, more preferably at least 60%, mostpreferably at least 70%, in the first 10 seconds of exit. Such coolingmay be achieved by directly contacting the element with a coolant suchas water or by cooling the extrusion area outside the extruder nozzle.

An alternative process comprises the steps of providing a CAD (ComputerAided Design) file comprising a 3D (three dimensional) virtual design ofthe element to be generated as single abrasive cleaning particledescribed herein, inputting said CAD file to a 3D printer for the 3Dprinter to generate a physical copy of said virtual design, preferably aplurality of said physical copies, and optionally adding said physicalcopies to a composition, preferably a liquid detergent composition orimpregnated substrate.

Method to Determine the Orientation of the Particle During the CleaningEvent

A sufficient amount of particles is poured randomly on the surface of aglass tile. By sufficient amount of particles, it is understood that theparticle number at the surface of the tile will be high enough to allowanalysis of at least 50 particles, preferably more than 100 and lowenough in order that the particles are separated from one another inorder to not compromise the natural orientation of each particleindividually from one another during the cleaning motion, e.g. a totalof about 300 particles on a 25 cm×25 cm surface.

A Spontex® cellulose sponge pre-wetted with water is then mounted on aWet Abrasion Scrub Tester Instrument (such as made by Sheen InstrumentsLtd. Kingston, England). The abrasion tester is configured to supplypressure of e.g.: 200 g, and move the sponge over the test surface witha set stroke length of e.g.: 10 cm, at set speed of e.g.: 37 strokes perminute. After 20 strokes, the experiment is stopped and the tile issubjected to microscope/image analysis, whereas the particle areobserved from the opposite face of the glass tile without removing thesponge from the glass tile. The orientation angle of the element ismeasured as being the angle of the Z-axe of the element and the cleaningdirection. The orientation angle is measured on at least 50 particles,preferably 100 or more particles

EXAMPLES

Particle Example# 1 2 3 4 5 6 Raw material PU PHB PHB PHB PHB PHBV RatioL/ECD P_(Hull) 1.5 1 1.5 2 3 0.5 Form Factor (cross-sectional 0.15 0.250.4 0.35 0.7 0.25 shape) Solidity (cross-sectional shape) 0.65 0.8 0.350.50 0.75 0.65 Aspect Ratio (cross-sectional shape) 0.4 0.35 0.5 0.2 0.70.55 Particle Area-equivalent diameter 250 250 150 200 100 350 “ECD” (inμm) Particle Example cntd. # 7 8 9 10 11 12 Raw material PHBV PHBV PHBVPHBV PLA PLA Ratio L/ECD P_(Hull) 1 1.5 2 2.5 0.8 1.5 Form Factor(cross-sectional shape) 0.35 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.15 0.5 Solidity(cross-sectional shape) 0.70 0.55 0.25 0.50 0.65 0.70 Aspect Ratio(cross-sectional shape) 0.5 0.3 0.6 0.4 0.4 0.2 Particle Area-equivalentdiameter 100 200 250 250 300 400 “ECD” (in μm) Particle Example cntd. #13 14 15 16 17 18 Raw material PLA PCL PCL PBS PBAT PBAT Ratio L/ECDP_(Hull) 2 1 1.7 0.5 1 1.5 Form Factor (cross-sectional shape) 0.35 0.20.35 0.35 0.35 0.45 Solidity (cross-sectional shape) 0.55 0.65 0.50 0.500.35 0.35 Aspect Ratio (cross-sectional shape) 0.6 0.33 0.4 0.5 0.33 0.5Particle Area-equivalent diameter 125 400 250 300 250 200 “ECD” (in μm)Particle Example cntd. # 19 20 21 22 23 24 Raw material PBAT TPS KAO CACBAS MICA Ratio L/ECD P_(Hull) 2 1.5 2 2 1.5 1.5 Form Factor(cross-sectional shape) 0.5 0.3 0.4 0.35 0.25 0.6 Solidity(cross-sectional shape) 0.8 0.55 0.6 0.5 0.65 0.6 Aspect Ratio(cross-sectional shape) 0.7 0.7 0.7 0.6 0.55 0.4 ParticleArea-equivalent diameter 300 200 25 20 15 20 “ECD” (in μm) ParticleExample cntd. # 25 26 27 28 29 30 Raw material TALC KAOb CACb BASb MICAbTALCb Ratio L/ECD P_(Hull) 2.5 1.5 1.5 2 2 2 Form Factor(cross-sectional shape) 0.3 0.35 0.35 0.20 0.4 0.4 Solidity(cross-sectional shape) 0.55 0.5 0.7 0.25 0.35 0.5 Aspect Ratio(cross-sectional shape) 0.5 0.7 0.5 0.4 0.2 0.15 ParticleArea-equivalent diameter 15 200 250 300 250 250 “ECD” (in μm)Symbol Foam Material:PU=Polyurethane (CAS number 53862-89-8 or 57029-46-6)PHB=Polyhydroxybutyrate (CAS number 26063-00-3 ex.: from Tianan orBiomer)PHBV=Polyhydroxybutyrate-co-valerate (CAS number 80181-31-3 ex.: fromTianan or Biomer)PLA=Polylactic acid (CAS number 26100-51-6 ex.: from NatureWorks)PCL=Polycaprolactone (CAS number 24980-41-4 ex. from Perstorp)PBS=Polybutylene succinate (CAS number 10034-55-6.ex.: from CSM)PBAT=Polybutylene adipate terephtalate (CAS number 10034-55-6.ex.: fromBASF)TPS=Thermoplastic starch (CAS number 9005-25-8 e.g.: from Aldrich)KAO=Kaolinite (CAS number 1318-74-7 from Aldrich). Note: extruded fromwater slurry 30-60% solid content and dry/cured after extrusion in500-1200° C. temperature rangeCAC=Calcium Carbonate (CAS number 471-34-1 from Aldrich). Note: extrudedfrom water slurry 30-60% solid content and dry/cured after extrusion in500-1200° C. temperature rangeBAS=Barium sulfate (e.g.: CAS number 7727-43-7 from KOBO or Aldrich).Note: extruded from water slurry 30-60% solid content and dry/curedafter extrusion in 500-1200° C. temperature rangeMICA=Mica (e.g.: CAS number 12001-26-2 sieved or commuted from MicaY1800, Y3000, S25 from KOBO). Note: extruded from water slurry 30-60%solid content and dry/cured after extrusion in 500-1200° C. temperaturerangeTALC=Talc (CAS number 14807-96-6 sieved or commuted from Kobo AJM,Ex-15, CT-250 or from Imerys OOSC, Superior M10 DEC). Note: extrudedfrom water slurry 30-60% solid content and dry/cured after extrusion in500-1200° C. temperature rangeKAOb=Blend 50% Kaolinite (CAS number 1318-74-7 from Aldrich) and 50%Carnauba wax (CAS number 8015-86-9 from Aldrich). Note: extruded fromwater slurry 30-60% solid content and dry/cured after extrusion in500-1200° C. temperature rangeCACb=Blend 50% Calcium Carbonate (CAS number 471-34-1 from Aldrich) and50% Carnauba wax (CAS number 8015-86-9 from Aldrich)BASb=Blend 50% Barium sulfate (e.g.: CAS number 7727-43-7 from KOBO orAldrich) and 50% Carnauba wax (CAS number 8015-86-9 from Aldrich)MICAb=Blend 50% Mica (e.g.: CAS number 12001-26-2 sieved or commutedfrom Mica Y1800, Y3000, S25 from KOBO) and 50% Carnauba wax (CAS number8015-86-9 from Aldrich)TALCb=Blend 50% Talc (CAS number 14807-96-6 sieved or commuted from KoboAJM, Ex-15, CT-250 or from Imerys OOSC, Superior M10 DEC) and 50%Carnauba wax (CAS number 8015-86-9 from Aldrich)

These following compositions were made comprising the listed ingredientsin the listed proportions (weight %). Examples herein are meant toexemplify the present invention but are not necessarily used to limit orotherwise define the scope of the present invention.

Examples of Abrasive-Particle Containing Formulations Hard SurfaceCleaner Bathroom Composition

% Weight 1 2 3 C9-C11 EO8 (Neodol 91-8 ®) 3 2.5 3.5 Alkyl Benzenesulfonate 1 C12-14-dimethyl Aminoxide 1 n-Butoxy Propoxy Propanol 2 2.5Hydrogene Peroxide 3 Hydrophobic ethoxylated polyurethane 1.5 1 0.8(Acusol 882 ®) Lactic Acid 3 3.5 Citric Acid 3 0.5 Polysaccharide(Xanthan Gum, Keltrol 0.25 0.25 0.25 CG-SFT ® Kelco) Perfume 0.35 0.350.35 .Abrasive cleaning particle example # 1 2 6 .Abrasive cleaningparticle load 1 1 1 Water Balance Balance BalanceHard Surface Cleaner Bathroom Composition (Cont.):

% Weight 4 5 6 Chloridric acid 2 Linear C10 alkyl sulphate 1.3 2 3n-Butoxy Propoxy Propanol 2 1.75 Citric Acid 3 3 PolyvinylPyrrolidone(Luviskol K60 ®) 0.1 0.1 0.1 NaOH 0.2 0.2 Perfume 0.4 0.4 0.4Polysaccharide (Xanthan Gum Kelzan T ®, 0.3 0.35 0.35 Kelco) .Abrasivecleaning particle example # 9 10 11 .Abrasive cleaning particle load 2 22 Water Balance Balance BalanceHand-Dishwashing Detergent Compositions:

% Weight 7 8 9 N-2-ethylhexyl sulfocuccinamate 3 3 3 C11EO5 7 14 C11-EO77 C10-EO7 7 7 Trisodium Citrate 1 1 1 Potassium Carbonate 0.2 0.2 0.2Perfume 1 1 1 Polysaccharide (Xanthan Gum Kelzan T ®, 0.35 0.35 0.35Kelco) .Abrasive cleaning particle example # 1 6 9 .Abrasive cleaningparticle load 1 2 5 Water (+minor e.g.; pH adjusted to 10.5) BalanceBalance BalanceGeneral Degreaser Composition:

% Weight 10 11 C9-C11 EO8 (Neodol 91-8 ®) 3 3 N-Butoxy Propoxy Propanol15 15 Ethanol 10 5 Isopropanol 10 Polysaccharide (Xanthan Gum-glyoxalmodified 0.35 0.35 Optixan-T) .Abrasive cleaning particle example # 1519 .Abrasive cleaning particle load 2 3 Water (+minor e.g.; pH adjustedto alkaline pH) Balance BalanceScouring Composition:

% Weight 12 13 14 Sodium C13-16 prafin sulfonate 2.5 2.5 2.5 C12-14-EO7(Lutensol AO7 ®) 0.5 0.5 0.5 Coconut Fatty Acid 0.3 0.3 0.3 SodiumCitrate 3.3 3.3 3.3 Sodium Carbonate 3 3 3 Orange terpenes 2.1 2.1 2.1Benzyl Alcohol 1.5 1.5 Polyacrylic acid 1.5 Mw 0.75 0.75 0.75 .Abrasivecleaning particle example # 26 27 6 .Abrasive cleaning particle load 1010 10 Water Balance Balance BalanceLiquid Glass Cleaner:

% Weight 15 16 Butoxypropanol 2 4 Ethanol 3 6 C12-14 sodium sulphate0.24 NaOH/Citric acid To pH 10 Citric Acid .Abrasive cleaning particleexample # 5 5 .Abrasive cleaning particle load 0.5 0.5 Water (+minor)Balance BalanceCleaning Wipe (Body Cleansing Wipe):

% Weight 17 18 19 C10 Amine Oxide — 0.02 — C12,14 Amine Oxide 0.4 — —Betaine (Rewoteric AM CAS — — 0.2 15 U) C9,11 A5EO (Neodol E 91.5 ®) —0.1 — C9,11 A8EO (Neodol E 91.8 ®) — — 0.8 C12,14 A5EO 0.125 — — 2-EthylHexyl Sulphate — 0.05 0.6 Silicone 0.001 0.003 0.003 EtOH 9.4 8.0 9.5Propylene Glycol Butyl Ether 0.55 1.2 — Geraniol — — 0.1 Citric acid 1.5— — Lactic acid — 1.5 Perfume 0.25 0.15 0.15 Abrasive cleaning particle13 3 7 example # Abrasive cleaning particle load 0.5 gram/m² 1 gram/m² 3gram/m² Nonwoven: Spunlace 100% (x3.5) viscose 50 gsm (lotion loadingfact) Nonwoven: Airlaid walkisoft (x3.5) (70% cellulose, 12% Viscose,18% binder) 80 gsm (lotion loading factor) Carded thermobonded (70%(x3.5) polypropylene, 30% rayon), 70 gsm (Lotion loading factor)Cleaning Wipe (Body Cleansing Wipe):

% Weight 20 Benzalkonioum Chloride (Alkaquat DMB-451 ®) 0.1 CocamineOxide (C10/C16 alkyl dimethyl amine oxide; 0.5 AO-1214 LP supplied byProcter & Gamble Co.) Pyroglutamic Acid (pidolidone) (2-pyrrolidone-5carboxylic 4 acid) Ethanol-denatured 200 proof (SD alcohol 40 ®) 10 DCAntiform H-10 (dimethicone) 0.03 Sodium Benzoate 0.2 Tetrasodium EDTA(Hampene 220 ®) 0.1 Sodium Chloride 0.4 Perfume 0.01 Abrasive cleaningparticle example # 5 Abrasive cleaning particle load 2 gram/m² Water andminors balance

The above wipes lotion composition is loaded onto a water-insolublesubstrate, being a patterned hydroentangled non-woven substrate having abasis weight of 56 grams per square meter comprising 70% polyester and30% rayon approximately 6.5 inches wide by 7.5 inches long with acaliper of about 0.80 mm. Optionally, the substrate can be pre-coatedwith dimethicone (Dow Corning 200 Fluid 5 cst) using conventionalsubstrate coating techniques. Lotion to wipe weight ratio of about 2:1using conventional substrate coating techniques.

Body Cleansing Composition:

% Weight 21 22 Cocoamidopropyl betaine 5.15 5.15 Sodium Laureth sulfate5.8 5.8 Sodium Lauroyl sarcosinate 0.5 0.5 Polyquaternium 10 0.1 0.1C12-14 fatty alcohol 0.45 0.45 Zinc Stearate 1.5 1.5 Glycol DiStearate0.25 0.25 Sodium lauryl sulfate 0.53 0.53 Cocamidopropyl betaine 0.170.17 Lauramide Diethanolamide 0.48 0.48 Sodium sulfate 0.05 0.05 CitricAcid 0.05 0.05 DMDM hydantoin (1,3-Dimethylol-5,5- 0.2 0.2dimethylhydantoin Glydant) Tetra Sodium EDTA 0.1 0.1 Fragance 0.5 0.5Polysaccharide (Xanthan Gum-glyoxal modified 0.2 0.2 Optixan-T).Abrasive cleaning particle example # 29 30 .Abrasive cleaning particleload 2 2 Water and minors 1 Water Balance BalanceHair Shampoo

23 24 25 Water q.s. q.s. q.s. Polyquaterium 76 ¹ 0.25 — — Guar,Hydroxylpropyl Trimonium — 0.25 — Chloride ² Polyquaterium 6 ³ — — 0.25Sodium Laureth Sulfate 12 10.5 10.5 Sodium Lauryl Sulfate 1.5 1.5Silicone ⁴ 0.75 1.00 0.5 Cocoamidopropyl Betaine 3.33 3.33 3.33Cocoamide MEA 1.0 1.0 1.0 Ethylene Glycol Distearate 1.50 1.50 1.50Abrasive cleaning particle example # 1 6 14 Abrasive cleaning particleload 1 2 3 Fragrance 0.70 0.70 0.70 Preservatives, pH & Visc. adjustersUp to 1% Up to 1% Up to 1% ¹ Copolymer of Acrylamide(AM) and TRIQUAT, MW= 1,000,000; CD = 1.6 meq./gram; Rhodia ² Jaguar C500, MW - 500,000, CD= 0.7, Rhodia ³ Mirapol 100S, 31.5% active, Rhodia ⁴ Dimethicone Fluid,Viscasil 330M; 30 micron particle size; Momentive SiliconesFacial Cleansing Compositions

Ingredients 26 27 28 29 Acrylates Copolymer¹ 1.50 2.0 1.25 —Acrylates/C₁₀₋₃₀ alkyl acrylate — — — 1.0 crosspolymer² Sodium LaurylSulfate 2.0 — — — Sodium Laureth Sulfate 8.0 — — — Ammonium LaurylSulfate — 6.0 — — Sodium Trideceth Sulfate — — 3.0 2.5 Sodium MyristoylSarcosinate — 2.0 3.0 2.5 Sodium Lauroamphoacetate³ — — 6.0 5.0 SodiumHydroxide* pH >6 — — — Triethanolamine* — pH >6 — pH 5.2 CocamidopropylBetaine 4.0 7.0 — — Glycerin 4.0 5.0 2.0 2.0 Sorbitol — — 2.0 2.0Salicylic Acid — — 2.0 2.0 Fragrance 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 Preservative 0.30.3 0.15 0.15 Abrasive cleaning particle 2 6 8 15 example # Abrasivecleaning particle 1 1 2 2 load PEG 120 Methyl Glucose 0.5 — 0.25 0.25Trioleate⁴ PEG 150 Pentaerythrityl — 0.40 — — Tetrastearate⁵ CitricAcid** pH 5.5 pH 5.5 pH 5.5 pH 5.5 Water QS QS QS QS to 100% to 100% to100% to 100% *per the supplier use directions, the base is used toactivate the acrylates copolymer **acid can be added to adjust theformula to a lower pH ¹Carbopol Aqua SF-1 ® from Noveon ™, Inc.²Carbopol Ultrez 21 ® from Noveon ™, Inc. ³Miranol ® Ultra L32 fromRhodia ⁴Glucamate LT ® from Chemron ⁵Crothix ® from Croda

Examples 24 to 27 are Made the Following Way

Add Carbopol to de-ionized free water of the formulation. Add allsurfactants except cationics and betaines. If the pH is less than 6 thenadd a neutralizing agent (typically a base i.e., Triethanolamine, sodiumhydroxide) to adjust to a pH greater than 6. If necessary, apply gentleheat to reduce viscosity and help minimize air entrapment. Add betaineand/or cationic surfactants. Add conditioning agents, additionalrheology modifiers, pearlizing agents, encapsulated materials,exfoliants, preservatives, dyes, fragrances, abrasive particles andother desirable ingredients. Lastly, if desired reduce the pH with anacid (i.e. citric acid) and increase viscosity by adding sodiumchloride.

Oral Care Composition (Toothpaste)

30 31 32 33 34 Sodium Gluconate 1.064 1.064 1.064 1.064 0.600 Stannousfluoride 0.454 0.454 0.454 0.454 0.454 Sodium fluoride Sodiummonofluoro- phosphate Zinc Lactate 0.670 0.670 0.670 0.670 2.500Glycerin — — — — 36.000 Polyethylene glycol 300 7.000 Propylene Glycol7.000 Sorbitol(LRS) USP 39.612 39.612 39.612 39.612 — Sodium laurylsulfate 5.000 5.000 5.000 5.000 3.500 solution (28%) Abrasive cleaning22 23 21 22 25 particle example # Abrasive cleaning 10.000 10.000 1.0005.000 5.000 particle load Zeodent 119 — — — — — Zeodent 109 10.00010.000 10.000 Hydrogen peroxide (35% soln) Sodium hexameta- — — — —13.000 phosphate Gantrez 2.000 2.000 2.000 — Natural CaCO3-600M — — — —— Sodium phosphate (mono — — — — — basic) Sodium phosphate (Tri — — — —1.000 basic) Zeodent 165 — — — — — Cocoamidopropyl — — — — — Betaine(30% Soln) Cetyl Alcohol 3.000 — — — — Stearyl Alcohol 3.000 — — — —Hydroxyethyl cellulose — 0.500 0.500 0.500 — (HEC Natrasol 250M) CMC7M8SF — 1.300 1.300 1.300 — Xanthan Gum — — — — 0.250 Poloxamer 407 — —— — — Carrageenan mixture — 0.700 0.700 0.700 0.600 Titanium dioxide — —— — — Saccharin Sodium 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 Flavor 1.000 1.0001.000 1.000 1.000 Water QS QS QS QS QS Zeodent 119, 109 and 165 areprecipitated silica materials sold by the J. M. Huber Corporation.Gantrez is a copolymer of maleic anhydride or acid and methyl vinylether. CMC 7M8SF is a sodium carboxymethylcellulose. Poloxamer is adifunctional block-polymer terminating in primary hydroxyl groups.

35 36 37 38 39 Sodium Gluconate — — — — — Stannous fluoride — — — — —Sodium fluoride — 0.243 0.243 0.243 — Sodium monofluoro- 1.10 —phosphate Zinc Lactate — — — — — Glycerin — — — — 40.000 Polyethyleneglycol 300 — — — — — Propylene Glycol Sorbitol(LRS) USP 24.000 42.50042.500 42.500 30.000 Sodium lauryl sulfate 4.000 4.000 — 4.000 —solution (28%) Abrasive cleaning 21 21 22 22 22 particle Examples #Abrasive cleaning 5.000 10.000 10.000 5.000 15.000 particle load Zeodent119 — — — 10.000 — Zeodent 109 Hydrogen peroxide (35% soln) Sodiumhexameta- — — — — — phosphate Gantrez Natural CaCO3-600M 35.00 — — — —Sodium phosphate (mono 0.10 0.420 0.420 0.420 0.420 basic) Sodiumphosphate (Tri 0.40 1.100 1.100 1.100 1.100 basic) Zeodent 165 2.00 — —— 2.000 Cocoamidopropyl — — 5.000 — — Betaine (30% Soln) Cetyl Alcohol0.000 — — — — Stearyl Alcohol 0.000 — — — — Hydroxyethyl cellulose —0.500 0.500 0.500 — (HEC Natrasol 250M) CMC 7M8SF 1.300 1.300 1.3001.300 1.300 Xanthan Gum — — — — — Poloxamer 407 — — — — — Carrageenanmixture — 0.700 0.700 0.700 — Titanium dioxide — — — — — SaccharinSodium 0.250 0.500 0.500 0.500 0.500 Flavor 1.000 1.000 1.000 1.0001.000 Water QS QS QS QS QS 40 41 42 Sodium Gluconate — — 1.500 Stannousfluoride — — 0.454 Sodium fluoride — — — Sodium monofluoro- — — —phosphate Zinc Lactate — — — Glycerin 40.000 10.000 25.000 Polyethyleneglycol 300 3.000 — — Propylene Glycol — — — Sorbitol(LRS) USP — 39.612 —Sodium lauryl sulfate 5.000 4.000 4.000 solution (28%) Abrasive cleaning23 25 25 particle Examples # Abrasive cleaning 15.000 5.000 5.000particle load Zeodent 119 — — — Zeodent 109 Hydrogen peroxide — 8.5708.570 (35% soln) Sodium hexameta- 14.000 — — phosphate Gantrez — — —Natural CaCO3-600M — — — Sodium phosphate (mono 0.420 — — basic) Sodiumphosphate (Tri 1.100 — — basic) Zeodent 165 2.000 — — Cocoamidopropyl —— — Betaine (30% Soln) Cetyl Alcohol — 3.000 — Stearyl Alcohol — 3.000 —Hydroxyethyl cellulose — — — (HEC Natrasol 250M) CMC 7M8SF 1.000 — —Xanthan Gum 0.300 — — Poloxamer 407 0.500 — 18.000 Carrageenan mixture —— — Titanium dioxide 0.500 — — Saccharin Sodium 0.500 0.500 0.500 Flavor1.000 1.000 1.000 Water QS QS QSOral Care Composition (Toothpaste):

% Weight 43 44 Sorbitol (70% sol.) 24.2 24.2 Glycerin 7 7Carboxymethylcellulose 0.5 0.5 PEG-6 4 4 Sodium Fluoride 0.24 0.24Sodium Saccharine 0.13 0.13 Mono Sodium phosphate 0.41 0.41 Tri Sodiumphosphate 0.39 0.39 Sodium Tartrate 1 1 TiO2 0.5 0.5 Silica 35 Sodiumlauroyl sarcosinate (95% active) 1 1 Flavor 0.8 0.8 Abrasive cleaningparticle example # 21 22 Abrasive cleaning particle load 12 10 WaterBalance Balance

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application and any patent application or patent to which thisapplication claims priority or benefit thereof, is hereby incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety unless expressly excluded orotherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission thatit is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimedherein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other referenceor references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention.Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in thisdocument conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in adocument incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assignedto that term in this document shall govern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositioncomprising non-spherical and/or non-rolling abrasive cleaning particlescharacterized in that said abrasive cleaning particles compriseextruded, and/or three-dimensional printed, elements having alongitudinal length extending parallel to a z-axis and a complexcross-sectional shape extending on a plane perpendicular to saidlongitudinal length and parallel to an x-y plane, wherein said complexcross-sectional shape comprises one or more elongate protrusionsprojecting in a direction parallel to the longitudinal length, eachprotrusion having at least one edge, and wherein said complexcross-sectional shape is a non-random cross-sectional shape, and whereinsaid elements comprise a hollow core and are porous, wherein saidelements comprise within said hollow core and/or pores an activecomponent selected from the group consisting of cleaning actives,solvent, polymer acid, polymer base, malodor counteractant, perfume, andmixtures thereof.
 2. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein the abrasive cleaning particles consist ofsaid elements.
 3. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein the protrusions project along substantiallythe entire length.
 4. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein said elements are symmetrical orasymmetrical about a plane parallel to said longitudinal length.
 5. Aliquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition according to claim 1wherein said elements consist of a single continuous fiber of organic orinorganic material.
 6. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein said complex cross-sectional shapecomprises more than about 2 elongate protrusions in the form of abrasivewings having a shape selected from the group consisting of substantiallylinear, substantially concave, substantially convex and combinationsthereof.
 7. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition according toclaim 1 wherein said complex cross-sectional shape comprises from about3 to about 30 of said protrusions, in the form of abrasive wings havinga shape selected from the group consisting of substantially linear,substantially concave, substantially convex and combinations thereof. 8.A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition according to claim 1wherein the complex cross-sectional shape has an aspect ratioF_(min)/F_(max) of less than
 1. 9. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansingcomposition according to claim 1 wherein said edge exhibits an angle offrom about 10° to about 90°.
 10. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansingcomposition according to claim 1 wherein each said protrusion has atleast one edge having a tip diameter of from greater than about 1 μm toless than about 50 μm.
 11. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansingcomposition according to claim 1 wherein said abrasive cleaningparticles have a packing density of from about 50 kg/m³ to about 400kg/m³.
 12. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing composition according toclaim 1 wherein more than about 70% of the particle population exhibitthe same shape.
 13. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein the abrasive particles comprise a materialselected from the group consisting of polyethylene, polypropylene,polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, melamine, urea, polyurethane,polyacrylate, polystyrene, phenolic polyesters, polyamide, minerals, andmixtures thereof.
 14. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein the abrasive particles comprise abiodegradable material having a biodegradability rate of greater thanabout 50% according to ASTM6400 test method.
 15. A liquid cleaningand/or cleansing composition according to claim 1 wherein the abrasiveparticles comprise from about 5 to about 70%, by weight of particle, ofreinforcing filler particles wherein said filler particles comprise amaterial selected from the group consisting of organic, in-organic andmixtures thereof.
 16. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansing compositionaccording to claim 1 wherein the abrasive particles have a Mohs hardnessof from about 1 to about 5.5.
 17. A liquid cleaning and/or cleansingcomposition according to claim 1 further comprising a suspending aid.18. A kit comprising a composition according to claim 1 and a substrateselected from the group consisting of paper, nonwoven towel or wipe,sponge, and combinations thereof.
 19. An impregnated or coated substratecomprising a material selected from the group consisting of paper,nonwoven towel or wipe, sponge, and combinations thereof, and acomposition according to claim 1.